Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Nests

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potato Nests (makes about 6)

Ingredients

Potato nests:

• 2 lb (1 kg) potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup shredded cheese (optional)

Filling:

• 10 oz (300 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt, black pepper and paprika to taste
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar and mozzarella

Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes until tender, drain well, and mash with butter, salt and pepper.
2. Stir in the chopped parsley.
3. Heat the oil in a skillet and cook the onion and garlic for 2 minutes until soft.
4. Add the ground beef, break it up, and cook 6 to 8 minutes until browned.
5. Add the red pepper and spices, and cook 2 to 3 minutes more. Drain any excess fat.
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
7. Shape the mashed potatoes into nests in a greased glass baking dish, pressing a well into the center of each.
8. Spoon the beef filling into the wells and top generously with shredded cheese.
9. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tip: Dry the potatoes well after draining so the mash holds its shape.